Getting Older

As I approach my mid-twenties I often find myself caught up in thoughts about the future, the past, and my changing identity therein. I think this is a unique time in a person's life; we 20-somethings are transitional creatures, no longer kids yet still standing on the precipice of tommorow and all the future represents. Questions inevtiably arrise, finding identity outside our places of birth, our schools, and upbringing. I think this is a time laden with many pretenses and expectations; some bad and some good; I believe it is our duty to engage the presuppositions surrounding this age to root out whats really important and what isn't. The search for identity shouldn't be based on societal or cultural norms; I would argue that the seed of reason, which is born into all of us, should be nourished and cultivated even above tradition.

The Greek philosopher Epicurus advocated the study of reason and philosophy so that we could reap the benefits of Ataraxia, a state of being free from worry and preoccupation. I find this to be true on a practical level, when I find myself dwelling on materialistic and superficial concerns then worry seems to find its way in. Yet, when I indulge contemplation I find that those negative effects just don't stick.

I suppose that what I'm getting at is that this is an important time in life; a time to make decisions and a time to identify value.

As Thomas Jefferson once said, "Our greatest happiness does not depend on the condition of life in which chance has placed us, but is always the result of a good conscience, good health, occupation, and freedom in all just pursuits. "